Explore Belgium's city of Ghent

Ghent has been called medieval Belgium and the flower city of Belgium. It has maintained a strangely medieval feel while at the same time it managing to progress and keep up with the times. Ghent is also an important harbor which is linked to the sea by the Ghent-Terneuzen canal. This harbor has allowed for the importing of products into the industrial heart of the hinterland. The position of Ghent also allows for the regular organization of the Flanders Technology Fair.

In Ghent, you'll find many youngsters and students. This is because the Belgian State University is located here. The influx of young people has resulted in Ghent becoming an important center for the Flemish culture.

Ghent is also famous for its flowers. Begonias and Azaleas from this city are sold all around the world. Every five years the Ghent Flower Show is held to great success. It attracts thousands of visitors and who find delight, not only in the abundance of beautiful wealth but also in the awe-inspiring architecture.

The city of Ghent is also famous for something else. It is nicknamed 'Stropke' which is the name given to the round part of a noose. This is because the 'stropke' was hung around the necks of the cities prominent people at least twice during the cities lifetime as a punishment for not supporting the current ruler of the time..

As you walk through the city of Ghent, the amazing strong mass of gothic and medieval buildings will likely strike you as being most beautiful. There are many to visit and a walking tour can be organized. Tours also usually include the many monuments to be seen in Ghent.

Also not to be missed is the 'Adoration of the Mystic Lamb' or the 'Ghent Altarpiece'. Considered to be one of the most influential paintings of the Middle-Ages, the masterpiece was painted by the brothers Jan and Hubert van Eyck. The painting is in panels and its strange and alluring beauty will likely remind you of the gracious old city just beyond the church's thick walls.